What Is Public Auto Insurance?

Quick Answer

What Is Public Auto Insurance?

Public auto insurance is a specialized commercial auto policy for vehicles that transport passengers for hire. It covers taxis, limousines, shuttles, buses, paratransit, NEMT, and rideshare vehicles. Unlike standard commercial auto, public auto policies are designed for the unique risks of passenger transport, including higher liability limits and endorsements for hire-and-reward operations.

What vehicles are covered by public auto insurance?

Public auto insurance covers any vehicle used to transport passengers for a fee: taxis, limousines, black cars, shuttles, charter buses, motorcoaches, school buses, paratransit vans, NEMT vehicles, ambulettes, and rideshare (TNC) vehicles.

What coverages are included in a public auto policy?

A standard public auto policy includes: auto liability (

Insure Limos | Commercial Transport & Luxury Livery Insurance

M–$5M CSL), physical damage (comprehensive and collision), uninsured/underinsured motorist, medical payments, and often general liability. Professional liability (E&O) and workers' compensation are separate but often bundled.

What is the difference between public auto and commercial auto?

Commercial auto covers business vehicles that transport goods or provide services (delivery trucks, contractor vans, company cars). Public auto covers vehicles that carry passengers for a fee. Public auto has higher liability limits, specialized passenger endorsements, and is filed with state DOTs and transportation authorities.

How do I get public auto insurance for my transportation business?

Contact InsureLimos at 1-888-254-0089 or submit an online quote request. We specialize in public auto insurance for all vehicle types in 18 states. We provide same-day certificates and handle all state regulatory filings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is public auto insurance?

Public auto insurance is commercial auto coverage specialized for vehicles that carry paying passengers — taxis, limos, shuttles, NEMT, buses, and rideshare vehicles.

What is the difference between public auto and commercial auto?

Commercial auto covers business vehicles transporting goods. Public auto covers vehicles transporting paying passengers. Public auto has higher liability limits and specialized passenger endorsements.

Do I need public auto insurance for a rideshare vehicle?

Yes. Personal auto insurance excludes rideshare operations. TNC/rideshare drivers need either a rideshare endorsement (for UberX/Lyft) or a full commercial public auto policy (for Uber Black, taxi, limo).

What is the minimum liability for public auto insurance?

Most states require

Insure Limos | Commercial Transport & Luxury Livery Insurance

M combined single limit minimum for public auto. California requires

Insure Limos | Commercial Transport & Luxury Livery Insurance

.5M–$5M under TCP rules. Limits vary by vehicle type, passenger capacity, and operating authority.

Related: Coverage TypesGet a QuoteLocations

Get Your Free Quote Today

Quote in 2 minutes. Same-day filings. Expert guidance on limits & compliance.

Get a Free Quote 1-888-254-0089